Better Swiss Cheese Ham and Asparagus Bake
Elevate weeknight dinners with the Better Swiss Cheese Ham and Asparagus Bake, a creamy and indulgent casserole that strikes the perfect balance between savory comfort and fresh flavors. Tender blanched asparagus serves as the crisp base, layered with flavorful diced ham and smothered in a velvety Swiss cheese sauce infused with a hint of nutmeg for warmth. Topped with golden panko breadcrumbs and melted cheese, this bake boasts a delightful crunch to complement its rich, gooey interior. Ready in under an hour, this versatile dish shines as a hearty main course or a sophisticated side, perfect for family gatherings or an elegant dinner for four. Delight your palate with this easy-to-make recipe that combines wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Perfect for those searching for irresistible ham and asparagus recipes!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups milk
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1.5 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1.5 cups cooked ham, diced
- 0.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with cooking spray.
Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, forming a roux.
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir in 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese until fully melted.
Layer the blanched asparagus in the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the diced ham over the asparagus.
Pour the cheese sauce over the asparagus and ham, spreading it gently to cover everything evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer, followed by the remaining 0.5 cup of Swiss cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top.
Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, savory dish as a main course or side!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1976 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 121.3 g | 156% | |
| Saturated Fat | 57.3 g | 286% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 455 mg | 152% | |
| Sodium | 6509 mg | 283% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 78.7 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.1 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.0 g | ||
| Protein | 154.4 g | 309% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.0 mcg | 25% | |
| Calcium | 2106 mg | 162% | |
| Iron | 14.2 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 2576 mg | 55% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
